Montgomery County awards $10M road construction bid

**Conroe, Texas – March 4, 2024** – Montgomery County’s Commissioners Court has greenlit nearly $10 million for two significant road upgrade projects, awarding a $9,956,227.17 construction bid to DVL Enterprises Inc. on February 27. These crucial infrastructure investments, funded by the voter-approved 2022 bond referendum, are set to begin in late March or early April and are expected to take 18 to 24 months to complete.

The projects aim to enhance connectivity, improve safety, and alleviate congestion in two rapidly developing areas of the county.

**Fish Creek Thoroughfare Transformation in Precinct 2**

One of the projects targets Fish Creek Thoroughfare in Precinct 2, a vital artery experiencing increased traffic volume due to sustained residential growth in the Lake Conroe area. The scope of work covers 1.57 miles, extending from McCaleb Road to FM 2978. Crews will undertake a substantial transformation, converting the existing two-lane asphalt road into a modern four-lane concrete boulevard.

Key enhancements for Fish Creek Thoroughfare include:
* Widening and reconstruction from two to four lanes.
* Installation of a raised median for improved traffic flow and safety.
* New curb and gutter systems.
* Upgraded drainage infrastructure to mitigate flooding risks.
* Construction of new sidewalks, enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility in the area.

Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley emphasized the importance of the Fish Creek project. “This area has seen tremendous growth, and our infrastructure needs to keep pace,” Riley stated. “Transforming Fish Creek Thoroughfare into a four-lane concrete road with improved drainage and sidewalks will significantly reduce congestion, enhance safety for drivers and pedestrians, and support the continued development of our community.”

**Fostoria Road Revitalization in Precinct 4**

The second major undertaking is the revitalization of Fostoria Road in Precinct 4, an essential corridor linking communities in East Montgomery County to major highways. This project spans 3.25 miles, from US 59 (Interstate 69) eastward to the Liberty County line. The plan involves comprehensive reconstruction and widening efforts.

Specific improvements for Fostoria Road include:
* Reconstruction and widening the road from two lanes to four lanes in some sections.
* Expansion to three lanes in other sections, strategically designed to optimize traffic flow.
* The construction of a brand-new bridge over Caney Creek, replacing the existing structure to improve capacity and safety.

Precinct 4 Commissioner James Metts highlighted the Fostoria Road project’s impact. “Fostoria Road is a critical connection for our residents in the Splendora and Plum Grove areas, and it experiences heavy truck traffic due to its proximity to US 59,” Metts said. “Widening this road and, especially, building a new bridge over Caney Creek, will drastically improve daily commutes, enhance safety, and ensure our infrastructure can handle the demands of a growing region.”

**Funding and Competitive Bidding**

Both projects are integral components of the Montgomery County 2022 Road Bond Program, a $160 million initiative overwhelmingly approved by county voters in November 2022. This bond package was designed to address critical traffic and infrastructure needs across the rapidly expanding county, building on successful efforts from previous bond issues, including a substantial road bond approved in 2015.

Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough reiterated the Commissioners Court’s commitment to responsible growth. “These road projects are direct results of the trust voters placed in us by approving the 2022 bond referendum,” Judge Keough commented. “Investing in our roads is investing in the safety, economy, and future quality of life for all Montgomery County residents. We are delivering on our promise to build the infrastructure our booming county desperately needs.”

DVL Enterprises Inc. secured the lucrative contract after a competitive bidding process, outperforming other qualified contenders such as L.E. Lowery and M.C.L. Construction. This competitive selection underscores the county’s commitment to ensuring taxpayer dollars are utilized efficiently and effectively.

For more information on county road projects and updates, residents can visit the official Montgomery County website at www.mctx.org.